Star City 6: Candace Chapman
Established in 1989, Benefit Professionals, Inc. is a group benefits brokerage firm located in La Vista, NE that works with clients in Nebraska and Iowa. Candace Chapman is an Account Manager for Benefit Professionals, Inc.
Tell us a little about your business.
We work with employers on all aspects of their Employee Benefits offerings with the goal of providing quality solutions that exceed our client’s needs and expectations. Our services include consulting, sales and ongoing client support. We explore options to help employers with the rising cost of health care, which has been a major focus for us in recent years and is expected to remain that way in the future.
How did you get started in the business?
A little over 10 years ago, after my first child was born, I took a job at a local insurance brokerage as a receptionist. After a few years as an office assistant/receptionist, I found myself learning to read policies and report claims for commercial business. From there I was given an opportunity to move over to the Employee Benefits division. Employee Benefits has been something that has felt like home since.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Balancing my roles as a full-time working mom and wife.
Tell us a little about your family.
My husband Jonathan and I have been married for 8 years, residing in Omaha for 15 years. We have been blessed with two wonderful children, Vance (10) and Mila (6).
What do you see as the biggest turning points in your life?
Each time our family dynamic changed; my wedding and the births of my son and daughter have been such wonderful milestones in my life, but also changed everything about it.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I enjoy good books, a good movie, and cooking. The occasional run also!
What are you the most proud of?
Watching my children grow, advance and succeed.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Success has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It’s what you do for others.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Kind.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
My culinary skills. I love to cook for my family and friends.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be able to sing. That is not a talent I was blessed with unfortunately.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Event planning. I enjoy hosting and organizing events for/with family, friends, and co-workers.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I have volunteered with the Open Door Mission and the Salvation Army in the past. It’s always so gratifying to help those in need.
What is your favorite TV show?
Dateline.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Blue Sushi & Sake Grill. I love everything there—the cocktails, appetizers, and of course, the sushi!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
You can contact me directly by phone at (402) 592-7777 or by email at cchapman@benefitprofessionals.net. You can also find out more about our company and offerings online at www.benefitprofessionals.net.
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